Community members and volunteers unite during Tagoe River clean-up

Zushi,Japan-(July 12, 2014)- Sailors, Scouts from Ikego’s Boy Scouts of America Troop 13 and volunteers from the local volunteer group Zushi Hotogisu-Tai spent their afternoon combing through the Tagoe River picking up trash, and debri in efforts to keep the local river clean . In total 1.7 tons of trash was collected. Photo by Mass Communications Specialist 3rd Class Marissa Valentine/Released

Yokosuka area service members and local volunteers recently took the time to beautify a local waterway near Fleet Activities (FLEACT) Yokosuka’s Ikego housing complex.

Sailors, Scouts from Ikego’s Boy Scouts of America Troop 13 and volunteers from the local volunteer group Zushi Hotogisu-Tai spent the day July 12 clearing more than 1.7 tons of trash and debris from the shores of the Tagoe River which borders the satellite housing complex near (IN) the city of Zushi.

“I think it is vital for children to learn how important it is to give back to the community,” said Juli Martin, scout leader for Boys Scouts of America Troop 13. “Doing a community service gives you a sense of accomplishment and builds character.”

Last month’s clean-up is part of a yearly community relations initiative between the volunteers inside and outside of the fence line at Ikego. The Tagoe is home to a number of fish species including coy and carp.

“I like doing volunteer projects such as this,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Equipment 2nd Class Charles Annang, a resident of Yokosuka base participating in the clean up. “Being stationed here in Japan we take advantage of the many beauties of nature so it is important to give back to the community and participate in these clean-ups when given the opportunity.”

“I wanted to help show support for the local community and build a good relationship with the locals,” said Yeoman 3rd Class Kevin Sharadan.

“It is important to show community members that as Sailors and visitors in their country that we are here involved in all aspects, not just the going out and having fun, but also cleaning up and being a part of something bigger,” Sharadan said.